"Israel Adesanya & Alex Pereira: From Rivalry to Respect"

The Fierce Rivalry 

"Their rivalry began in kickboxing and carried into the UFC, where they fought twice in the middleweight division." 

"At UFC 281, Alex Pereira shocked the world by knocking out Israel Adesanya to win the middleweight title." 

UFC 281 - Pereira’s Victory 

UFC 287 - Adesanya’s Revenge 

"At UFC 287, ‘The Last Stylebender’ avenged his loss, knocking out Pereira and reclaiming the belt."

Pereira Moves to 205lbs 

"Following the loss, ‘Poatan’ moved up to light heavyweight and went on to win the title."

Pereira’s Respect for Adesanya 

"Recently, Alex Pereira acknowledged Adesanya’s role in his success: ‘Maybe without him, I wouldn’t be where I am today.’" 

Adesanya Reveals Their DMs 

"Adesanya revealed they exchanged messages, saying, ‘He said that to me, and I reciprocated it back.’" 

"Despite their fierce battles, both fighters respect each other’s journey and how their rivalry shaped their careers." 

Mutual Growth & Respect 

"Now, Adesanya is set to fight Nassourdine Imavov at UFC Fight Night 250 in Saudi Arabia."

Adesanya’s Next Fight 

"From rivals to mutual respect, Adesanya and Pereira’s story is one of competition, growth, and admiration." 

A Legendary Rivalry